How to Change Rear Disc Brakes on a 1997 Honda

The rear brakes on the 1997 Honda are not the primary brakes for stopping the vehicle during braking. Rather, the rear disc brakes are crucial in maintaining control during braking. The rear brakes endure less stress and therefore are in need of replacement less often than their front wheel counterparts. You can choose to have the brakes replaced by a professional brake mechanic, or you can do it yourself and save money.

Lift the Honda's hood. Remove the master cylinder cap located to the right of the engine, near the back of the engine compartment. Siphon half of the brake fluid from the container with a poultry baster. Place the cap loosely over the master cylinder.

Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels with the lug wrench. Place the jack under the frame in the back of the vehicle and lift the rear tires off the ground. Place jack stands under the rear axles and lower the Honda onto the stands.

Remove the lug nuts and take the rear tires off.

Remove the two caliper slide bolts on the inside of the rear left brake caliper with the 10 mm wrench. Lift the caliper from the brake assembly. Slide the two brake pads from the sides of the caliper. Use a flat screwdriver to pry the pads from the caliper if they will not slide free easily by hand.

Force the caliper piston into the side of the caliper with a pair of channel-lock pliers. The piston into the cylinder that protrudes from the inside of the caliper. It forces the brake pads into the rotor during braking. Open the piston to make room for the new, thicker brake pads.

Apply a thin payer of anti-squeal, copper-based brake grease to the back sides of the new brake pads. Slide the pads onto the sides of the caliper. Replace the caliper and screw in the caliper slide bolts with the 10 mm wrench.

Repeat Steps 4 through 6 to replace the brakes on the other side of the Honda.

Replace the wheel and screw on the lug nuts by hand. Lift the back of the Honda with the jack and remove the jack stands. Lower the rear tires to the ground. Tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench. Move back of the engine compartment.

Remove the master cylinder cap and place a funnel into the reservoir. Fill the container with brake fluid. Remove the funnel and replace the master cylinder cap. Close the Honda's hood.